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Context:

The Territorial Army established a new task force dedicated to the rejuvenation and protection of the Gomti River.

About Gomti River

It is a tributary of the river Ganga (Ganga) which flows entirely through the state of Uttar Pradesh.

Course:

• Gomti river originates from Gomat Taal, otherwise called Fulhaar Jheel, located near Madho Tanda in Pilibhit district of Uttar Pradesh.
• The river drains the area between the Ramganga and Sharda rivers.
• After flowing south through the districts of Lucknow, Barabhanki, Sultanpur, Faizabad and Jaunpur, it joins the Ganga River.
• The river stretches for about 900 km. It drains a watershed of about 7,240 square miles (18,750 sq km).
• It is a perennial river. The river is characterized by a slow flow throughout the year, except during the monsoon season, when heavy rainfall causes a multifold increase in runoff.
• Important tributaries of the Gomti include the Sai River, the Chowka River, the Kathina River and the Saryu River.

About  Ganga Task Force (GTF)

GTF aims to improve environmental protection and sustainable development. Key responsibilities include pollution monitoring, patrolling of riverbanks and ghats, public awareness campaigns and bank stabilization.

Composition: The GTF is primarily made up of ex-servicemen reflecting the Territorial Army's tradition of using experienced personnel for national missions.

Inauguration:

• The formal promotion ceremony took place on 1 January 2025 at Lucknow Cantonment.

Organization of the National Mission:

• The GTF was established under the National Mission for Clean Ganga which is an initiative of the Jal Shakti Ministry.
• Orders for its creation were issued by the Ministry of Defense in September 2024.

Importance:

This initiative reinforces the Indian Army's role in nation-building and environmental sustainability.  GTF aims to make a significant contribution to the revitalization of the Gomti River and the wider Clean Ganga mission.

READ ABOUT TERRITORIAL ARMY:

Territorial Army

MODERNISING THE ARMED FORCES

Source:

INDIA TODAY